Observe a harmonious marriage of inner power and outer beauty during the 2016 Motorcycles As Art Exhibition: Skin & Bones, curated by renowned motorcycle photographer Michael Lichter. Take a walk through this one-time collection of tattoo-inspired motorcycles and art on display at the Sturgis Buffalo Chip’s Russ Brown Events Center, and the experience is sure to leave a permanent mark on your soul.

About the Exhibit

Exhibit Curator Michael Lichter

Creating a custom motorcycle masterpiece worthy of being chosen for this exhibit requires a deep understanding of mechanical engineering and aerodynamics, as well as an innate appreciation for style and design. The “skin” of each bike in this exhibit must work flawlessly with its inner “bones.” To that end, builders will expose their personalities to you by lending an added layer of tattoo design to the outside of what already were remarkable machines.

Over 30 masters of the trade earned the invitation to display one of their custom motorcycles in the 2016 Skin and Bones exhibit. You’ll be able to closely examine each of their works as they sit atop elevated pedestals that offer an unencumbered view from every angle.

Meet the Builders

Motorcycles As Art curator Michael Lichter strives to include new talent and builders in the exhibition each year in order to keep the show relevant. In 2016 more than half of the builders exhibiting their work will be doing so for the first time.

Richie Pan – More than 50 pieces of art by Richie Pan will be displayed in his memory.

Other Artists Include:

AD Cook

Darren McKeag

George the Painter

Latricia “Trish” Horstman

Mario Burkhardt

Michael Lichter

Nik Pew

Tay Herrera

Timothy White

Biltwell helmets – There will also be a display of Biltwell “Gringo” helmets painted by tattoo artists from around the country.

In addition to the custom motorcycles on display, you’ll have the rare opportunity to lose yourself in the deep colors and richly symbolic art of celebrated tattoo artist Richie Pan. The late owner of Dark Star Tattoo in New Jersey will have paintings hanging throughout the hall alongside each motorcycle.

When he wasn’t creating distinctive tattoo designs, Pan painted and brought his oils to rest in depictions of machines and people that make you feel like what you’re seeing is ink embedded in flesh. While his use of intense color and curious design is deeply rooted in the world of tattooing, you’ll also observe his love of everything motorcycle in both the subject matter and characteristic symbolism displayed in his pieces. Pan was killed in an accident in 2015, but you can see his spirit live on in this amazing group of paintings.